Prayagraj: In the ripple effect of the LPG cylinder shortage, people are also rushing to complete e-KYC at gas agencies, adding to the chaos. Consumers feel they will not be able to book their cylinder online if they have not completed their e-KYC once the lock-in period is over. “LPG cylinders still reach those e-KYC customers who’ve got their delivery codes,” said the owner of an agency, adding, “Those deliveries are being prioritised to ensure that genuine consumers do not face hardship.”

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Agencies also claimed that the move aimed to ensure balanced supply and prevent panic bookings. The oil companies have also instructed distributors to be more vigilant about e-KYC compliance.“Around 90% of customers have already completed e-KYC. In remaining cases, there was either a change of address or the original customer was yet to complete the process,” said the owner of an agency at Stanley Road.District authorities claim no shortage, but customers flocked to distributorship offices on Sunday after struggling with missed calls and IVRS.Those who booked cylinders between March 5 and 8 are still waiting for deliveries. The gas agencies are doing their best to clear the backlog, but they are dependent on receiving more cooking gas from oil companies.Meanwhile, small traders are switching to coal stoves due to the commercial cylinder crunch, pushing up coal prices – 1 quintal now costs Rs 1,950, up from Rs 1,750.